How to Transfer LIC Policy After Policyholder's Death: Claim Guide
After a policyholder's death, the nominee must file a death claim with LIC within 90 days. Here are the exact steps, documents, and timelines for a smooth settlement.
When an LIC policyholder passes away, the nominee must file a **death claim** to receive the death benefit. This is separate from maturity claims and requires specific documents. Here is a clear, step-by-step guide.
## Immediate Steps After a Policyholder's Death
1. **Do not delay.** LIC requires death claims to be filed within **90 days** of death. While LIC does accept later claims with justification, early filing is smoother. 2. **Locate all policy documents.** Check physical files, email inbox (for e-policies), and the LIC portal. 3. **Inform the agent or branch.** Your agent (like Ajay sir at 9415313434) will guide you through the entire process — this is part of the service.
## Documents Required for Death Claim
1. **Duly filled Claim Form No. 3783** (available from LIC branch or portal) 2. **Original Policy Bond** (the physical policy document) 3. **Death Certificate** (original + 2 attested copies — issued by municipal authority) 4. **NEFT Mandate Form** with nominee's bank details (for payment) 5. **Cancelled cheque** of nominee's bank account 6. **Nominee's ID Proof** (Aadhaar, PAN, voter ID) 7. **Nominee's Address Proof**
**Additional documents for accidental death:** - FIR copy - Post-mortem report - Police inquest report
**For death due to illness:** - Medical records, hospital discharge summary - Cause of death certificate from attending doctor
## Filing the Claim
**Step 1:** Visit the LIC branch where the policy is serviced (usually the city where it was issued)
**Step 2:** Submit all documents at the Claims Department counter. Get an acknowledgment receipt.
**Step 3:** LIC processes the claim — typically **30 working days** for straightforward cases.
**Step 4:** Payment credited to nominee's bank account via NEFT.
## What If the Nominee is a Minor?
If the nominee is a child below 18, LIC pays the death benefit to the **appointed person** (usually the other parent, as mentioned in the policy). The minor receives the amount on turning 18.
## Succession Certificate (When No Nomination Was Made)
If the policyholder died without naming a nominee, the legal heirs must obtain a Succession Certificate from a civil court. This is time-consuming (6 months to 1 year). Always ensure your LIC policies have a valid nomination.
For claim assistance anywhere in Gorakhpur, UP, or eastern India, call Ajay Kumar Poddar at 9415313434. Claim settlement guidance is provided at no extra charge.
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Ajay Kumar Poddar
Ajay Kumar Poddar is a veteran financial advisor with over 31 years of experience, a premier MDRT member, and a recipient of the LIC Chairman's Club award. He helps Gorakhpur families secure their future with absolute transparency and trust.
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